Jakarta, INTI – Students from the Community Service Program (KKN-BBK) 6 of Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) have successfully created a unique innovation, natural soap made from green mussel shell waste.
The green mussel shell waste was transformed into an economically valuable product while also addressing the issue of shell accumulation in the coastal area of Ngawen Village, Sidayu Subdistrict, Gresik Regency, which had not been utilized optimally.
“In the initial survey, village officials told us that the main problem in Ngawen Village was the excessive accumulation of green mussel shells. From there, we sought a solution to prevent the waste from piling up and polluting the environment,” explained Abdur Rahman Akhtar, group leader, on Monday, August 18, 2025.
This mussel shell soap was developed through the “Shell Soap” program by ten KKN students: Abdur Rahman Akhtar, Erla Banowati, Safira Dwi Putri Rahayu, Nadya Frida Sari, Savira Gading Yustitia, Bramantya Leo Wijaya, Salomina Santhie Urlialy, Prafangasta Naomi Jesica Utomo, and Valerio Septanziilal Da Conceicao. They decided to empower the local community to process mussel shell waste through this initiative.
Community Empowerment
Beyond creating an innovative product, the KKN students also focused on empowering the people of Ngawen Village. Akhtar explained that soap-making demonstrations were one of their main activities. The program specifically targeted local residents, particularly mothers from the Family Empowerment and Welfare Group (PKK).
“Our program is open to all residents of Ngawen. However, the village officials encouraged us to collaborate with the PKK women’s group since they are highly active,” he added.
The soap-making process begins with washing the mussel shells, drying them under the sun, and burning them for 7–8 hours until they turn into powder.
“After burning, we sift the powder to remove charcoal. The burning process produces lime, which we mix with cooking oil, soda ash, and water. After stirring for about an hour, the mixture is poured into molds and left for 2–4 weeks. Adding fragrance is also important to make the soap smell pleasant,” Akhtar explained.
He emphasized that the program will be beneficial if applied properly and sustainably, helping reduce green mussel shell waste.
“Recently, we inspected the waste disposal site, which covered several hectares and caused a foul smell while polluting the environment. This program helps reduce mussel shell waste by turning it into new products,” he added.
Benefits of Green Mussel Shells
According to research from University of Pembangunan Nasional “Veteran” East Java, green mussel shells contain about 97% calcium carbonate (CaCO₃). Based on PT Emdeki Utama’s official website, calcium carbonate in skincare products functions as a mild exfoliant, helping remove dead skin cells and encourage cell turnover. By gently exfoliating dull and flaky skin, it makes the skin smoother and brighter.
Using mussel shells as a main ingredient for soap provides several advantages:
- Reduces the volume of organic waste, minimizing the risk of environmental pollution.
- Provides a safe, chemical-free, and affordable alternative cleanser.
Conclusion
Through this innovation, the community can save on their monthly soap expenses while switching to eco-friendly alternatives. Furthermore, if developed as a small business, mussel shell soap can be marketed as an environmentally friendly product with attractive selling value. With proper packaging and promotion, it has the potential to reach wider markets and even become part of the village’s creative economy.
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